I recommend new boxes specifically designed for moving. These are stronger than basic cardboard and come in standard sizes to easily transport.
Prepare your belongings for storage with these must-have packing supplies. From boxes and tape to furniture covers and label makers, we break down exactly what you need for safe, organized goods.
As an avid DIYer who has used moving storage services three times in 5 years, I’ve perfected my packing process. Whether storing seasonal décor, family heirlooms, or entire rooms of furniture, having the right materials makes all the difference.
Invest in Quality Boxes
The foundation of good packing lies in your boxes. I recommend new boxes specifically designed for moving. These are stronger than basic cardboard and come in standard sizes to easily stack and transport. Some key types:
- Small boxes for heavy items like books, canned goods, tools
- Medium boxes for bulky stuff like pillows, lamps, toys
- Large boxes for awkwardly shaped décor and framed pictures
- Wardrobe boxes with a hanging rod for dresses, suits, and coats
You’ll also want a variety of specialty boxes based on your belongings:
- Dishpack boxes to protect glassware and ceramics
- Mirror/picture boxes to prevent scratches
- File boxes with handles for organizing documents
Buy at least 20% more boxes than you think you’ll need to avoid running out. Extras come in handy if anything breaks down mid-pack.
Bubble Wrap is Your Best Friend
Blankets and towels make decent padding. But for fragile valuables like china, antiques, and electronics, bubble wrap is essential. The air pockets provide unbeatable cushioning and prevent breakage.
Some types to have on hand:
- Large bubble wrap rolls to line the bottom/sides of boxes
- Small bubble wrap rolls to individually wrap items
- Bubble pouches to protect picture frames, vases, lamps
I also use bubble wrap to pad furniture corners, wrap mirrors and artwork, and create custom barriers between items packed tightly into a box.
Tape it Up
Any seasoned packer knows you can never have enough tape on a moving day! Masking tape tears easily and isn’t very strong. For storage, use heavy-duty packing tape.
I prefer 2” wide rolls as they quickly seal both small and large boxes in fewer strips. The stickier the adhesive, the better to keep boxes securely closed.
If storing furniture, also grab the mover’s tape – the super thick plastic film that won’t leave residue behind. This locks padded covers and plastic sheeting in place.
Label Everything
When safeguarding a household of possessions, detailed labels prevent items from getting lost or separated. I use permanent markers to manually tag boxes with general contents – “Kitchen Items,” “Kid’s Books,” etc.
But for speedier inventorying and finding specific boxes later, invest in an inexpensive label maker. These handy devices let you instantly apply legible stickers on each container.
I organize label info into three lines:
- Top – broad category like “Living Room”
- Middle – type of items like “Decorations”
- Bottom – specifics like “Framed Photos,” Vases”
And don’t forget the color-coded dot stickers to designate boxes going to different locations!
Protect Your Furniture
Unless you enjoy reassembling flat-packed beds and shelves, properly shield furniture to keep it intact. I secure delicate surfaces first with bubble wrap. Then I cover entire pieces in stretchy plastic sheeting or thick furniture pads.
Secure loose parts like removable legs and hardware in labeled Ziploc bags taped to the item. This prevents small pieces from getting misplaced from their corresponding furniture.
For long-term wood storage, elevator climate-controlled units are ideal to prevent warping. Adding moisture absorbers inside boxes also helps guard against mold and mildew.
Maximize Your Moving Supplies Investment
Stocking up on packing materials may seem pricey upfront. But protecting your valuables saves money and headaches compared to replacing damaged goods later.
And with the right storage conditions, many supplies can be reused again down the road when it’s finally time to unpack.
So invest in high-quality packaging materials and pack neatly using my tips above. Your belongings will arrive safely at their storage destination ready to settle in!
